What is Low Level Laser Therapy?
Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) or Photobiomodulation (PBM) is a low intensity light therapy. The effect is photochemical not thermal. The light triggers biochemical changes within cells and can be compared to the process of photosynthesis in plants, where the photons are absorbed by cellular photoreceptors and triggers chemical changes.
LLLT is Anti-Inflammatory & Promotes Tissue Healing
Through its positive effects on local immune mechanisms, LLLT has a powerful anti-inflammatory effect. This results in immune-mediated healing effects on the injured soft tissues (tendons, ligaments, muscle, joint capsule etc) and also of involved nerves, skin etc.
LLLT stimulates blood flow and lymphatic drainage, improved delivery of oxygen and nutrition to the area, removal of oxygen-free radicals and other waste products, and tissue healing.
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Low level laser therapy is the application of red and near infra-red light over injuries or lesions to improve wound and soft tissue healing, reduce inflammation and give relief for both acute and chronic pain.
We use the Swiss DolorClast High Power Laser machine: The power of the High Power Laser lies in its specially selected laser wavelength (expressed in nanometres [nm]), which determines its depth of penetration. Wavelengths between 650 nm and 1350 nm are defined as the ‘therapeutic window’ for laser therapy. Within this window, the laser penetrates deeply into the tissues rather than being mostly absorbed by water, blood or melanin. As a result, the laser can trigger biological mechanisms crucial for the healing process
No, the treatment is not painful at all! In comparison to other high-power lasers, the patient perceives almost no thermal effect. This is thanks to the specially selected wavelength and short pulse duration of 100 ns, which keep the treated tissues below the thermal threshold and avoid the risk of burns.
A powerful analgesic effect will be felt 5 minutes after the end of the treatment and is likely to last up to 72 hours. In addition, the decrease of acute inflammation kicks in 60 minutes after the end of the laser session, leading to quick absorption of oedema and faster healing in the damaged tissue.
The number of sessions will depend on the type of pathology. An average of 6 sessions, 3x a week, may be required when the laser is used alone. An average of 3 to 5 sessions, once a week, may be required when the laser is combined with DolorClast® Shock Wave Therapy.
LLLT is not a new medical procedure, in fact it has been around since the 1900s and came into clinical use through its development by NASA on its space station in 1999. There are now over 400 Phase III laboratory trials and 4000 publications on its use in medicine.
LLLT has a long history and strong basic science evidence, which supports its use in pain management. It has few side effects and is well tolerated in the elderly.
A laser does not correct situations involving structural deficits or instabilities whether in bone or soft tissue.
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